Zekes Hut
Zeke‘s hut track is a bit tricky to navigate through the farmland. Crossing the swing bridge, follow the stream to the left to the gate, where the track crosses a small culvert to the right. From here, the track is vague, sidling the wetland, aiming for the hill in front of you, where a faded marker will eventually appear at the bushline. 1st km club steeply with some muddy sections before making its way through dense bush with significant regenerative undergrowth, though navigation is pretty straightforward.
A solid 2 1/2 hours to the hut makes it one of the rare occasions I consider DOC times a little ambitious. Most online reviews say anything from 6 to 7 hours return.
The track is an in-and-back, meaning the steep ascent on the way in is a steep descent on return. Sturdy footwear is a must, as slipping is almost a case of when, not if.
Date of visit: March 2026
Wildlife: 1/2
Scenic: 1/2
History / Points of interest: 1/2
Quiet / Relaxed: 1
Visit again: 1/2
Smiles per Hour rating: 3
Access is a few km south of Waiouru. A small parking area is at the roadside, with the track initially crossing farmland.